Upright and reversed describe a card's orientation. When you enable reversals in AIZHANBU Tarot, the basic meaning for each card's orientation is displayed. With upright-only readings, every card is read as upright. Decide whether to use reversals before you begin.
Orientation offers different perspectives
This site's editorial approach does not mechanically treat a reversed meaning as the opposite of an upright one. A theme can also be explored through blockage, excess, internalization or imbalance. Read the specific card's explanation, then consider its spread position and your real circumstances.
For example, a theme about initiative might encourage a first step, or prompt you to check whether you are rushing into action without preparation. This illustrates a reading method; it does not replace any card's formal meaning.
Reversed does not mean bad, and upright is not a guarantee
A reversed card is not a reason to rush into another draw. A promising upright card is not a reason to skip real-world checks. A card may bring a possibility to your attention, but it does not guarantee an event or establish that another person has bad intentions.
The result page shows orientation next to the card name so you know which set of text you are reading. Rotating the image is only a visual representation; card names and explanations remain normally oriented for reading.
Beginners can start with upright cards only
Getting comfortable with spread positions, keywords and reflection questions is usually easier than learning two sets of meanings at once. Upright-only reading is still a complete exercise; it does not mean you lack an essential ability. Consider adding reversals once you can clearly distinguish the meaning of a position from the meaning of the card itself.
Different reading methods handle reversals differently. On this site, follow the settings selected before the draw and the orientation shown in the result. You do not need to change already drawn cards to fit a particular viewpoint.
Keep settings consistent within a round
If drawing has begun and you want to switch from upright-only to allowing reversals, or the other way around, start a new round. Choosing which set of meanings to use only after seeing the result can turn a reading into a search for what you want to hear.
Your notes can include both “What is supported by evidence?” and “What does not fit me?” Keeping room for disagreement is also a useful reading practice.
Continue reading: One-card and three-card spreads and Using a reading for self-reflection.